Kruger National Park, South Africa
The Kruger National Park’s 5 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)
The best restaurants in the Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park isn’t just about spotting the big five – its dining scene is worth exploring too. After a day of game drives, these restaurants offer standout experiences with amazing views, unique dishes and a chance to recharge after a day of safari adventures. Picture dining on a vintage train over the Sabie River, digging into a traditional South African dish with views of elephants grazing nearby or sipping a cocktail on a terrace surrounded by the sounds of the bush. You’ll experience that and more at these standout restaurants. Here’s a look at what we consider the best restaurants in Kruger and the standout dishes that should not be missed.
01
The Bridge House at Kruger Shalati
Located on the historic Kruger Shalati Train, The Bridge House combines dining with stunning views over the Sabie River. The restaurant sits on a repurposed train parked on the Selati Bridge, offering an open-air dining experience that blends history and modern luxury. One of the highlights on the menu here is their signature slow-braised lamb shank, a fall-off-the-bone masterpiece served with a red wine reduction and seasonal vegetables. The dining experience feels almost surreal as you soak in the sounds of the wild and spot wildlife like hippos and crocodiles from your table. It’s an unforgettable way to dine in the heart of Kruger.
The Bridge House at Kruger Shalati
Kruger National Park
Selati Bridge Precint
Skukuza
Mpumalanga
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Bridge House at Kruger Shalati
02
Kudyela Restaurant
Kudyela Restaurant, situated in the Kruger Gate Hotel, offers a dining experience focused on traditional South African cuisine. We loved the friendly and casual atmosphere here, it’s a great spot to relax after a long day in the bush. They often have live local performances that give you a taste of South African culture beyond the plate. The restaurant offers an impressive buffet breakfast, featuring local specialties like boerewors and pap and homemade preserves served with freshly baked breads. The grilled bream topped with chakalaka – a spicy vegetable relish – is a must-try for lunch or dinner.
Kudyela Restaurant
Kruger National Park
On The Sabi River At The Paul Kruger Gate
Skukuza
Mpumalanga
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Kudyela Restaurant
03
3638 Restaurant
Located within the Kruger Station complex, 3638 Restaurant is inspired by the history of rail travel in South Africa. This restaurant interior evokes old-world rail nostalgia with lux modern furnishing – perfectly complimenting the menu that features both traditional and contemporary dishes. The venison burger is the standout option here – made from locally sourced game meat, topped with homemade chutney and served with a side of crispy onion rings. With its lively atmosphere and train-themed surroundings, 3638 Restaurant is perfect for families and travellers looking for a relaxed casual meal while still surrounded by a unique and beautiful setting.
3638 Restaurant
Kruger Station Selati Concession
Skukuza Rest Camp
Kruger National Park
Skukuza
Mpumalanga
South Africa
Photography courtesy of 3638 Restaurant
04
Magnolia Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge
Magnolia Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge is the place to go when you’re in the mood for something a bit more sophisticated. Enjoy the upscale ambience at this restaurant while sipping on one of their signature cocktails, we recommend the delicious and one-of-a-kind Rooibos Gin Sour, best enjoyed on the outdoor terrace! Magnolia Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge serve both classic dishes and inventive new flavours. For us, there were two stand-out dishes – the beef fillet, cooked to perfection and served with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and the ostrich carpaccio, garnished with arugula and drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Magnolia Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge
R538
Hazyview Road & White River
Mpumalanga
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Magnolia Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge
05
River’s Edge Restaurant
Situated along the banks of the Sabie River, River’s Edge Restaurant is an ideal spot to dine while enjoying the scenic surroundings. We love the quiet atmosphere at this restaurant, especially when seated in the open-air dining area and enjoyed the opportunity to have some drinks in the boma area. The lamb potjie, a traditional South African stew, is a must-try, simmered slowly in a cast iron pot to develop deep flavours. There’s something special about dining here as the river flows past, especially when you spot elephants wandering along the riverbanks. River’s Edge perfectly captures what we love most about Kruger: a deep connection with nature, even over a great meal.
River's Edge Restaurant
Hazyview Cabanas
Hazyview
Mpumalanga
South Africa
Photography courtesy of River’s Edge Restaurant
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